Question:
How do child custody agreements treat parenting time when one parent has to work an unusual schedule?
My job schedule has changed so now I work for three or four weeks straight and then receive one or two weeks off before repeating the same schedule.
Will the court grant my ex-wife more parenting time or change our child custody schedule because of my new work schedule?
Answer:
In the state I practice in (Missouri), your visitation schedule may need to be modified if the current plan does not fit your needs.
For example, if your work requires you to travel for a week or two at a time, then a visitation schedule where you have your children 3 overnights per week will not work.
The court will likely want to modify the schedule so that it fits with your needs and meets the best interest of your children.
Child custody factors vary by state but in general factors considered may include the age of the parent and child, the physical and mental condition of the parent and child, the relationship existing between each parent and each child, the needs of the child, the role played by each parent in the upbringing and caring for the child, the home where the child will live and the child’s wishes if the child is of sufficient age, intelligence and maturity to make such a decision.
Custody may be changed if there is a material change in circumstances.
Please understand that my opinions are based upon the limited facts that you provided to me. For a more in depth discussion of your legal rights and legal advice on divorce, I urge you to contact a family law attorney immediately.
To set up an appointment with a Cordell & Cordell attorney, including Michelle Hughes, an Associate Attorney in the Jefferson County, Missouri office, please contact Cordell & Cordell.
